Wondering how long does it take to get a cat passport? The process usually takes a couple of weeks, depending on your vet’s schedule (and your cat’s vaccination status). Here, we describe the process to make sure your cat is ready to hit the road.
You will need to follow a set of steps as set out by the UK government and veterinary authorities to obtain a passport that allows your cat to travel. This is done through microchipping, vaccinating and documentation. Let’s dive into the details.
- Microchipping Your Cat
Your cat will need to be microchipped to be granted this passport. A microchip is a tiny electronic device that is placed under your cat’s skin and contains a unique identification number. This is required for international pet travel and helps identify you as the owner of your cat if they get lost while abroad.
Check that the microchip is ISO-standard (11784/11785) and is registered with your contact information. Most UK vets can do this relatively straightforward process, and the fee to prepare your cat’s passport usually includes microchipping (£10-£30).
Step 2: Rabies Vaccination
One of the most important requirements for a cat passport is a rabies vaccination. Your cat needs to have a rabies vaccination no less than 21 days before your trip. If your cat is already vaccinated, be sure its vaccination is current, as expired vaccinations can void the cat passport.
A rabies jab costs on average between £40 and £80 from a vet, but it can be more expensive, depending on your location and where you take your pet. This is a major cost of a cat passport, so be sure to set aside some extra funds.
Step 3: Obtaining the Animal Health Certificate (AHC)
Post Brexit, the cat passport UK is now based on the old EU pet passport via the Animal Health Certificate (AHC). To get an AHC (Animal Health Certificate) to show your cat is fit and healthy and conforms to the travel rules, you must take it to an Official Veterinarian (OV).
The AHC is valid for 10 days for entry into the EU and four months for onward travel within the EU. How much does an AHC for cats cost? The cat passport UK cost for an AHC usually falls around £100 to £250, and it may vary depending on the vet and testing needed.
Step 4: Tapeworm Treatment (If Required)
You may need to give your cat a medicine for tapeworms at the hands of a vet 24–120 hours before travel, in preparation for travel to some countries such as Finland, Ireland, Malta or Norway. Not all vets will include this in the standard cat passport cost, so ask your vet about any additional costs you might face, which could be between £20-£40.
Step 5: Check Destination Country Requirements
Every country has its entry requirements, so do your homework on your destination’s regulations. For instance, there may be more blood tests or health checks that are required in some countries. It does, always confirms with the UK government’s pet travel guidance or the embassy of the destination country to make sure there are no surprises.
Cost of a Cat Passport in the UK
Curious about how much a cat passport? The amount of the cat passport generally ranges between £150 and £350. This is inclusive of costs for microchipping, rabies vaccine, AHC, and other treatments as tapeworm control.
The cost of cat passport can vary depending on how much your vet charges, where in the UK you live, and if your cat already has a current microchip and vaccination (which is needed for the passport). Also, be sure to search for competitive vet prices to save money and make sure your cat’s current records haven’t lapsed to prevent unnecessary treatments.
Tips for a Smooth Cat Passport Process
Plan Ahead: Start the cat passport process at least one to two months before your trip to allow for vaccination waiting times and vet appointments.
Maintain records: Keep your cat’s microchip information, vaccination history and AHC in a file to assist at the border checks.
Choose a Reputable Vet: Always work with an OV (Official Veterinarian) with experience in animal travel (in case of air travel) to fill in all the necessary paperwork.
Explore Pet Transport Services: If you’re not doing the travelling yourself, look into pet transport services to take the anxiety out of moving your cat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Getting a Cat Passport
One common error is underestimating how long does it take to get a cat passport. Failing to account for the 21-day rabies vaccination waiting period can derail your travel plans. Another mistake is not verifying the destination country’s requirements, which may lead to additional costs or delays.
Additionally, some pet owners overlook the need for an AHC for each trip, as it’s not a reusable document like the old EU pet passport. Always double-check the validity of your cat passport UK documentation before departure.
Always Use a Professional Pet Transport Service
When you travel with a pet, things can get complicated, particularly when you cross international borders. Professional pet transport services such as Pet Taxi Express UK tailor your cat’s trip to be smooth and meet all of the legal requirements. From facilitating a vet visit, managing paperwork, and transport, our services save you time and stress.
Get in touch with us today to get started and rest easy knowing your cat’s travel is in professional care. Our website is always available, or please give us a call to schedule your session, and make your next vacation less stressful and more memorable with your pet in tow!
FAQs
- How much is a cat passport in the UK?
The cat passport cost ranges from £150 to £350, with fees for microchipping, rabies vaccination and the animal health certificate that will usually be much cheaper. Fees will vary depending on the vet and other necessary treatments.
- How long does it take to get a cat passport?
It should take 3-4 weeks to get a passport for cat travel, which includes a rabies vaccination waiting period and vet visits. Plan early to avoid delays.
- What factors influence the cat passport UK cost?
The cat passport UK price will include vet fees, microchipping, vaccination for rabies, as well as other treatments such as tapeworm control.
